Book Review: Prospero's Children

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Prospero's Children     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Jan Siegel
Class/Genre:   Fantasy
Del Rey, May 2000, $24.00, 350 pp.

In Yorkshire, teenager Fernanda Capel and her younger brother soon find strange visitors arriving at their new home. Not everyone can claim they play host to unicorns and shapeshifters, but Fern does that and more. Apparently, these species and other so-called mythological creatures endured the cataclysm that sunk Atlantis.

The island's survivors are drawn to the Capel house due to a magical key that opens the gateway between life and death. That ring, forged by a maniacal queen, led to the destruction of Atlantis. When the key is ultimately misused, a portal is opened that could spell the end of life as we know it. Fern is the prime hope of saving a universe by regaining the key, which is now on Atlantis, just prior to the devastation.

Shockingly, a story centering on Atlantis should not seem fresh, yet PROSPERO'S CHILDREN provides a vigorous look at the legendary island. The story line is fun, especially when Fern goes on her quest. Though the tale starts as if it is going to be a teen adventure aimed at that audience, the exciting plot will please fantasy fans of all ages, especially those that enjoy the Atlantis myths.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner